Derry in form, Waterford a tough nut to crack
Derry City are clear odds-on favorites to beat a Waterford FC side that are eighth in the Premier Division table on 27 points after 22 games, and this Derry City vs Waterford FC prediction underlines their strong form.
Tiernan Lynch’s men are second in the table on 37 points after 22 Premier Division matches, so the Derry City side have enjoyed a strong campaign by any measure.
Lynch has brought a clear structure to the team since taking charge in November 2024, playing a possession-based game, where they patiently build from the back, get wide and use their midfield to control the game.
This Derry City vs Waterford FC preview highlights how the blueprint has provided Derry City with a sturdy defence and provided the platform for their current three-match winning run. Michael Duffy leads the line with seven Premier Division goals in 22 appearances, but Liam Boyce’s contribution of two in their last six matches adds another dimension to their attack.
Waterford can be a frustrating team to play
John Coleman took charge of Waterford’s game in May 2025 and has instilled tactical flexibility into the squad. They can play an expansive game where they get behind the ball and hit the opposition on the counter, or they can be a patient possession-based team, depending on who they play.
However, they have yet to find any consistency and are coming off a 2-2 home draw with Shelbourne and a 1-0 away defeat to Shamrock Rovers.
Padraig Amond is the main goal threat for the Blueboys with eight Premier Division 2025 strikes, the highest tally on the Waterford team. Amond has hit 3 of Waterford’s 6 league goals in his last five appearances and is capable of unlocking any defence on his day. The Derry City vs Waterford FC odds for Amond to score could provide value for punters.
Derry can get the job done
Despite Waterford’s ability to be a different type of team on any given day, our Derry City vs Waterford FC prediction is that Derry City should come through with the win on Friday night. Derry City have won their last three games, while Waterford have lost their last two on the road.
The visitors have scored a respectable 11 goals in 11 away league games, but Derry City have bagged 17 times in 11 home Premier Division outings this year, so they look a match for Waterford’s defence. In terms of Derry City vs Waterford FC betting tips, the home side's attacking record stands out.
Derry have won six, drawn two and lost three of 11 Premier Division home games in 2025 and we feel that makes them a firm favourite to win this clash. Backing under 2.5 goals could also be fruitful given the recent history of this fixture and Waterford’s away form.
